This southwestern Montana hub has hiking trails, crystal digging, and a Gold Rush ghost town.
In 1805, the Lewis and Clark Expedition passed through Dillon in southwestern Montana, where they purchased horses to cross the continental divide. Today, the town remains a regional hub at the crossroads of several major highways and just three hours from Yellowstone National Park. There are plenty of adventures closer to town, too, whether you’re hunting for crystals at Crystal Park, visiting a gold rush-era ghost town at Bannack State Park, or trout fishing along the Beaverhead, Big Hole, and Ruby Rivers. Hikers can follow in the footsteps of Lewis and Clark to the landmark Beaverhead Rock, and there are miles of trails in the Beaverhead-Deerlodge National Forest, many also suitable for biking, horseback riding, and snowmobiling. Campers are spoiled for choice with several RV parks and campgrounds in and around town, which provide electric or full hookups. Alternatively, you’ll find Hipcamps, cabin rentals, and state-run campgrounds dotted throughout the national forest.